Muhammad a Prophet For all Humanity
12. Emigration—From Makkah to Madinah
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to one hard-and-fast principle. He used to steer
clear of all controversial issues and concentrate
entirely on giving good news of the joys of
paradise, and warnings of the punishment of hell.
He would avoid any discussion of political,
economic and tribal affairs. When he preached the
message of Islam to the Banu ‘Amir ibn Sa’sa’ah
tribe in the fair of ‘Ukaz, he assured them at the
same time that all he would do was pursue his
preaching work in a peaceful manner; he would not
raise any extraneous issue. “I am God’s Prophet,”
he said. “If I come amongst you, will you protect
me so that I can continue to communicate my
message? I will not force you on any matter.”
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In Madinah preaching work still remained the basic
purpose of the Prophet’s mission. But the spectrum
had broadened, and now Islam had to take account
of social issues as well. The policy adopted by the
Prophet at this juncture was aimed at softening
people’s hearts towards Islam, so that the purpose
of his mission could be achieved without conflict. “I
have been assisted by the feelings of awe which I
inspire—this has been the equivalent of one
month’s journey,” he once said. Usually his
